Clinical Question – Strain vs. Sprain

Strain- A strain occurs to a muscle or tendon from an acute injury. An example of this is when someone is in a car accident. The person’s muscle/tendon is over contracted or over stretched depending on the position of the person during the accident. Common symptoms are pain, weakness, decrease range of motion, and muscle fatigue.

Sprain- A sprain occurs to a ligament in response to an overstretch or tear. An example of a sprain is when a patient steps off a curb and lands on the outside of their foot, this results in an ankle sprain. Common symptoms are pain, swelling, brusing, and decreased range of motion.